On 14th July, the National Energy System Operator [of Great Britain] (NESO) published the 2025 edition of the Future Energy Scenarios (FES)
This edition has highlighted the immense benefits a biomethane economy can have to reduce carbon emissions, and provide a low cost solution to meet the UK’s climate targets.
In one pathway listed, NESO set a target of 64 TWh of biomethane production in GB, a 10x increase from current output. However, independent analysis commissioned by NESO, identified sustainable biomethane feedstock potential availability far exceeding the levels required by NESO’s pathways.
They believe, with the right ambition, policy and supply chains, a rapid expansion of biomethane production is possible in the UK.
Here in Northern Ireland, there is potential to develop a strong biomethane sector complimenting our large agriculture sector, which would provide ample feedstock to generate potentially 6TWh of biomethane, enough to meet 80% of our current gas demand.
A recent Request for Information conducted by the Gas Network Operators here in Northern Ireland identified 3.6 TWh, enough to heat 290,000 homes or meet 90% of current Industrial and Commercial demand.
With growing recognition of the benefits of biomethane, it is important that the NI Executive act now to develop legislation to grow and support this vital sector.